WE boosts technology and health teams with senior hires

Independent agency WE Communications has boosted its Asia Pacific technology and health sector leadership through the appointment of Emma Richards (left) as VP, regional technology lead and Shefali Srinivas as VP, regional health lead.In their new roles, Richards and Srinivas will drive the agency’s expansion of health and technology client portfolio, partner networks and teams in Singapore, Hong Kong, China, India and Australia.Richards first joined as head of technology for the UK office in 2008 before her transfer to Hong Kong in 2011. She went on to serve as VP, Hong Kong’s general manager from 2013-2016.“In a world of transformation, it is essential that brands own their communication and not allow their narrative to be driven for them. I’m excited to take on this new role, which will enable me to help technology clients lead their own transformation through effective, strategic and creative communications” said Richards.On the other hand, Srinivas joined WE Communications in 2012 as the Singapore health lead and was promoted to regional director role in 2014. In this newly created position, she will build stronger health capabilities in emerging markets with a view to expanding WE’s footprint in the region.“As decisions about health are vital, I’m excited to harness our storytelling abilities to decode complexity and help brands deliver information that can impact care decisions,” said Srinivas.To further support expansion of the regional health practice, WE has appointed a new director, JJ Lee, who joined this month. She will lead key creative and marketing strategies for healthcare clients in Singapore and the region and report to Srinivas.Based in Hong Kong and Singapore respectively, Richards and Srinivas both report to Matthew Lackie, executive vice president of Asia Pacific.